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ITTN’s Shane Cullen joined trade and travel agents at UAE Connect 2025 at The Fitzwilliam Hotel. The event is organised by the UAE Embassy to promote tourism to the United Arab Emirates. Suppliers at the event included Etihad, Emirates, Visit Dubai, Visit Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Do Something Different, Kerzner, Miral, Jumeirah, Dubai Holding, Amar, The View Palm Jumeirah Ambassador of the UAE to Ireland Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Ireland H.E. Mohammed Homod Hamad Rahmah Alshamsi shared, “The government of the UAE constantly invests in tourism, improving the infrastructure and building international partnerships to keep the UAE competitive. Looking ahead, especially with plans like Vision 2031, tourism would be necessary for encouraging cultural exchange, boosting the economy and connecting people from all over the globe. Overall, the UAE tourism industry represents progress and ambition. Linking old traditions with modern lifestyles will make the country an attractive destination for many years.” He thanked attendees for supporting the event despite the weather. Etihad – Beyond Borders Etihad Airways has reached a new milestone with the airline operating 300 scheduled passenger flights per day. This achievement is underpinned by strong growth in 2025, highlighted by an over 20% year-on-year increase in daily flights, positioning Etihad among the fastest-growing full-service airlines globally. It reflects the airline’s strongest performance to date, driven by operational excellence, sustained passenger demand, and continued network expansion. Jason Aaron Kearns shared that Etihad will be operating a twice-daily service from Dublin to Abu Dhabi from April 2026, with continuing demand from Irish travellers. Currently, Eithad operates 10 times weekly from Dublin (DUB) to Abu Dhabi (AUH). For more on Abu Dhabi & Etihad, check out: https://ittn.ie/travel-news/four-arabian-nights-in-abu-dhabi-with-etihad-abu-dhabi/ https://ittn.ie/archive/nothing-economy-about-economy-etihad-hyatt-abu-dhabi-fam/ https://ittn.ie/travel-news/abu-dhabi-five-stars/ Visit Abu Dhabi The city of Abu Dhabi is vibrant and lively; you’ll never be without something to do. Beyond the city, majestic desert landscapes and lush green oases are waiting to be explored. For nature-lovers, visitors can explore the beautiful Mangrove National Park, the wilderness of Sir Bani Yas Island and the dunes of the Empty Quarter. The city of Abu Dhabi’s award-winning restaurants have culinary delights on offer. Furthermore, watch world-class shows at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena and be a part of the world’s greatest racing event at the finale of the Formula 1™ season at Yas Marina Circuit. Miral – Creative Immersive Destinations & Experiences Miral is a creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, including leisure and entertainment destination, Yas Island, as well as Saadiyat Island, known for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts and cultural experiences. Yas Island recorded a 15% increase in visitation while Saadiyat Island saw a 14% increase across its cultural landmarks and hotels. Yas Theme Parks achieved a 9% increase in visits compared to last year, with August alone, achieving a 16% surge and international visitation growing by 50% year-on-year. The Yas Theme Parks also saw particularly strong contributions from key markets including the GCC1 (+31%), China (+31%), Russia (+86%), and the UK (+47%). As for Saadiyat Island, this summer saw a 14% increase in cultural landmark visitation, with the new teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, surpassing visitation expectations since its opening in April 2025. In terms of hotels, Yas Island achieved an average occupancy rate of 85% over the summer, with occupancy peaking at 90%+ and ADR reaching its highest at AED 1,470 at The WB Abu Dhabi hotel in August 2025, alone. As for Saadiyat Island, its hotels and resorts recorded a strong 66% hotel occupancy and achieved their highest ADR at an average of around AED 1,000 throughout the summer. Yas Island for All Ages – Rides, Shows, Experiences, Shopping & More Travellers can relax on the shores of Saadiyat Island, or thrill-seekers can feel adrenaline at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Fun for all ages, Yas Island, home to the world’s largest indoor theme park, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi. Located on the golden shores of Abu Dhabi – just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, Yas Island offers holidaymakers a diverse mix of leisure and entertainment experiences, all within the 25 sq. km island. Yas Island boasts world-class shopping at Abu Dhabi’s largest mall Yas Mall, superb dining at Yas Bay Waterfront, Abu Dhabi’s vibrant day-to-night attraction and award-winning golf at Yas Links golf course. The island offers a year-round line-up of spectacular musical, entertainment and family events. Furthermore, it has ten hotels, including W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, and The WB™ Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel. With more than 165 dining experiences, the destination also features indoor and outdoor concert venues, including WHITE Abu Dhabi and Etihad Arena. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has now opened its gates, marking a significant addition to the ever-growing array of attractions on Yas Island. As visitors explore this captivating marine-themed park, Yas Island solidifies its reputation as a premier destination for unforgettable entertainment and adventure. Furthermore, the team from Yas Island shared that a new Harry Potter-themed land will feature at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, making the experience even more magical. Emirates has earned many awards this month, including ‘Best International Airline’, ‘Best International First Class’, and ‘Best International Airline Lounge’ from the Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards, plus accolades from the World Travel Awards, The Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards, and the Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards. Now offering a thrice-daily service from Dublin to Dubai, the airline makes it even easier to visit the city that earned its ranking as the second safest destination in the world. Making the journey more comfortable, Emirates’ new Premium Economy class launched in June 2025 and is available on two of the daily Dublin–Dubai flights. Passengers can lexperience the upgraded service aboard a fully retrofitted Boeing 777. The retrofitted B777 with Premium Economy offers Emirates’ latest cabins that redefine comfort for travellers, offering spacious leather reclining seats with full leg and footrests and adjustable headrests. It features in-seat charging points, a wood-finished side cocktail table, a 13.3-inch TV screen, a generously sized pillow and blanket as well as complimentary amenity kits on select flights, among other luxurious touches. Passengers seeking a premium dining experience can explore a diverse selection of regional menus, featuring an array of local flavours and an extensive beverage selection for Premium Economy customers. Furthermore, the inflight entertainment system has undergone significant enhancements, now boasting a larger screen and an extensive collection of movies, TV shows, and albums For more on Emirates Emirates Lands Slew of Top International Aviation Awards Discover Dubai with Emirates, Visit Dubai & Kerzner Event in Dublin Dubai has something for everyone – desert safari, iconic attractions, culture and heritage, gastronomy, fabulous beaches, unbeatable entertainment and relaxation. Do Something Different in Dubai Graham Hennessy (Do Something Different) was on hand to share the experiences on offer from Do Something Different, which offers “worldwide attractions, from the ordinary to the extraordinary”. Dubai is, of course, part of their repertoire – check out their Dubai offering here. He shared that Jeep Safaris were top sellers in the Irish market. Through Do Something Different, travellers can dive into an incredible waterpark, explore the enchanting Arabian desert, or ascend to the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for breathtaking views. Dubai is a dazzling gem in the Arabian Desert, transforming from a small fishing village into one of the hottest tourist destinations on the planet. The city offers endless attractions, from exhilarating Jeep safaris and swimming with dolphins to fine dining cruises and sport fishing. There’s something for everyone in Dubai! Couples can indulge in a romantic dinner cruise along the sparkling Dubai Marina, taking in the stunning skyline as the sun sets. Meanwhile, families can unwind on the pristine sandy beaches and kids will be thrilled with the slides at Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis, The Palm Hotel. No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Ascend to the observation decks for breathtaking views of the city and the stunning desert beyond. It’s an experience that offers a unique perspective of this incredible metropolis. For theme park enthusiasts, Dubai Parks and Resorts is a must-visit destination, featuring attractions like MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, LEGOLAND® Dubai, and Real Madrid World. This vibrant entertainment complex promises thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and fun for the whole family. With fantastic weather year-round, Dubai is a top choice for sun-seekers, whether you visit in the high or low season. If travellers are seeking luxury and relaxation, Dubai offers it all. Agents can book experience tickets for Dubai’s top attractions and excursions through dosomethingdifferent.com to simplify holiday planning and ensure travellers don’t miss out on these sought-after experiences! For More from Dubai, check out: Dubai Fam Trip with Emirates ITTN at the Royal Atlantis & the Royal Palm in Dubai Caesar Palace Dubai Dubai Delivers Exceptional Experiences Dubai Holding includes Jumeira Hotels & Resorts, Theme Parks, Spas & More Dubai Holding is one of the largest diversified groups in the region. Its portfolio includes Dubai Holding Entertainment, Dubai Parks and Resorts™, the Middle East’s largest multi-themed leisure and entertainment destination comprising of three separate theme parks: MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, LEGOLAND® Dubai and LEGOLAND® Water Park Dubai Holding Hospitality Assets owns 34 hotels with 10 hotel operation partners, 18 brands and 8,100+ hotel keys. Prestigious properties include Bulgari Resort Dubai, Banyan Tree Dubai, Delano Dubai, Hatta Resorts, Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts and many more. In addition, Jumeirah is a member of Dubai Holding and a leading luxury hospitality company renowned for delivering exceptional experiences for over 25 years. Founded in 1997, Jumeirah comprises Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, a world-class portfolio of 31 luxury properties in 13 countries across the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa. Jumeirah Restaurants, a Dubai-based full-service hospitality provider, offers a diverse selection of signature dining experiences across itsglobal portfolio of hotels, with several restaurants featured within the Michelin and Gault&Millau guides. Jumeirah also comprises the award-winning Talise Spa, offering holistic wellbeing and tailored spa experiences; J Club, Dubai’s leading lifestyle and wellness destination; and Jumeirah One, the brand’s dedicated recognition and rewards programme. Atlantis, The Palm & Atlantis The Royal Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal are synonymous with Dubai. Their iconic structures help form the city’s skyline. Atlantis, The Palm Atlantis, The Palm stretches 22 stories high with 1,544 rooms and 6 signature suites. Guests can enjoy dining across 32 restaurants, including 2 by celebrity chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Gordon Ramsay. The Atlantis, The Palm is renowned for its vibrant day-to-night entertainment scene and is home to the city’s best bars and hottest beach clubs. At the Atlantis, The Palm has the Ambassador Lagoon with a colossal 11 million litre marine habitat for 65,000 marine animals and one of the top ten largest aquariums in the world. It is truly epic. Aquaventure, at the Atlantis, The Palm, is the world’s largest waterpark and has more than 105 record-breaking slides, attractions and experiences. On top of this world-class offering, there are additional experiences such as up-close opportunities to engage and witness the dolphins and sea lions at the Atlas Village. To truly unwind, ShuiQi Spa and Fitness has 17 treatment rooms offering over 60 different treatments. Atlantis The Royal This very unique structure is home to 693 guest rooms, 96 suites and 6 signature penthouses, of which 44 suites and penthouses have a private infinity pool. It has been named 9th in the World’s 50 Best Hotels and is described as the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world. Embrace a new standard of luxury, where the highest level of service sets a new benchmark for excellence. This is the place where something incredible happens at every moment of your stay. This is Atlantis The Royal. Guests at Atlantis The Royal can enjoy 17 restaurants and bars, including 8 by celebrity chefs, including Heston Blumenthal, Nobu Matshisa, Gastón Acurio, Ariana Brundy and Costas Spiladis. In addition, guests can enjoy the exclusive entertainment experiences such as Cloud 22, Nobu by the Beach and Ling Ling by Hakkasan. The resort offers a 5,000 sqm wellness haven with everything from waterfalls, fountains of fire, walls of flames, a yoga lawn, meditation pavilion, 17 treatment rooms, a 25-meter pool and more. Guests at the Atlantis The Royal also benefit from daily complimentary admission to the world’s largest waterpark and Lost Chambers aquarium, which is home to 65,000 marine animals. Kerzner Ultra Luxury Hotel Group Since 1993, Kerzner International has grown into a globally reputed leader in the development and operation of destination resorts, ultra-luxury hotels, and exclusive private homes. Through the years, they have built a diverse collection of iconic brands and luxury properties, earning international acclaim for pioneering destination-defining hospitality, delivering unrivalled service, and curating transformative guest experiences. Kerzner is renowned for creating hospitality brands that are distinct and iconic. Their portfolio includes Atlantis, One&Only, SIRO, and Rare Finds. The Kerzner Ultra Luxury Hotel Group also have the One & Only collection of resorts in Dubai, taking guests from unforgettable family stays at One&Only Royal Mirage to romantic retreats at One&Only The Palm, and glamorous city breaks at One&Only One Za’abeel. One&Only The Palm is situated on Dubai’s exclusive ‘riviera’, where coastal tranquillity meets the energy of the city’s urban skyline. Refined and assured, this boutique beach resort is infused with endless romanticism, elegance and creativity. Discover a space for every mood, from Chef Yannick Alléno’s Michelin-starred cuisine to exceptional wellness at Guerlain Spa. In the cosmopolitan heart of Dubai, One&Only Royal Mirage evokes timeless Arabian splendour and elevated energy. This urban beachfront oasis is spread across three distinct spaces, with a kilometre-long stretch of beach, curated dining, and outdoor adventures inspired by the magic of Arabia. One&Only One Za’abeel unlocks city elegance with unrivalled access, ease and sophistication. Let us bring the best of Dubai to your fingertips, with glamorous dining, transformative wellbeing, and curated fashion, art and culinary experiences under one roof. AMAR – Luxury Desert Ecolodge by Magic Travels Amar Luxury Desert Lodge is an exclusive and unique desert experience created by Magic Travels, an award-winning destination management company. With a legacy of excellence since 1985, Magic Travels crafts tailored experiences, from private retreats to group adventures. Amar Luxury Desert Lodge is located in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, offering a blend of immersive, eco-conscious luxury and authentic desert traditions. With its 10 private Deluxe tents, Amar offers luxury desert hospitality. Each lodge provides guests with a serene escape while showcasing the captivating beauty of the Arabian desert. Guided by a philosophy of creating extraordinary and sustainable travel experiences, travellers are invited to explore the enchanting landscapes and vibrant heritage of the Emirates in unparalleled comfort. The team at Amar offers tailor-made luxury holidays, combining exclusive destinations and opulent accommodations. Each holiday is meticulously crafted to a client’s specifications, ensuring a unique and personalized experience. This offers an opportunity to discover dream destinations with bespoke services, curated to provide an unparalleled travel experience. Event Raffle Prizes Grand Prize 1 – Donna Kenny (Tour America) Pair of return economy flights with Emirates Airlines from Dublin to Dubai, a voucher for a 2-night stay in Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, inclusive of breakfast for 2 guests (valid 1 year), 2xDPR Business Passes from Dubai Park (access to Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark and Real Madrid World) Grand Prize 2 – Trevor Buckley (Editor, Irish Aviation Research Institute) Pair of return economy flights from Dublin to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways, a voucher for a 2-night stay in an Ocean Deluxe Room in Jumeirah Saddiyat Island with daily breakfast for 2 guests. Grand Prize 3 – Jordon McCluskey (Sports Entertainment Tours) A voucher for 2 nights stay in Jumeirah Beach Hotel, inclusive of breakfast for 2 guests, 2 tickets to At the Top, Burj Khalifa and 2 tickets to Sky Views Observatory and Glass Slide from the Department of Economy & Tourism, UAE. Grand Prize 4 – Mathew Jacob A voucher for a 2-night stay in the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, inclusive of breakfast for 2 guests, Magic Travels – 1 night stay in the Amar Luxury Desert Ecolodge, 2 tickets to The View at The Palm – Dubai Parks GCC – The Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) is a regional organisation comprising of six members: The Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates ↩︎
